Nile Monitor

Scientific Name: Varanus niloticus

DID YOU KNOW?

• Nile monitors are Africa’s longest lizards, though a former subspecies, now recognized as the species Varanus ornata , may be as big or bigger. Hatchlings are about 30 cm long and weigh about 26 g.
• Adult Nile monitors are brownish or greenish gray, with darker reticulation and yellowish spots or stripes on the back and limbs and yellowish-green spots on the head.
• A Nile monitor’s tail can grow more than one meter in length. It serves as a counterweight when running, an oar to help power it through the water and a whip with which to lash out at an assailant in self-defense.

EVERY SPECIES COUNT

Nile Monitor is currently facing threads like Habitat destruction and illegal trade while being an invasive species.

Curious to Learn More?
Reach out to our Education Team at education@emiratespark.ae we’re happy to share more wild facts!